what's deafbeef?

Deafbeef is a generative audiovisual artist and creator in the blockchain and NFT space, known for blending engineering principles with digital art. With a background in software engineering, Deafbeef utilizes a decade-old computer and C compiler to produce music and visual works that explore themes of technology, satire, and interactivity. Projects often incorporate on-chain mechanics, such as cryptographic linking, smart contracts, and generative processes, to create unique, verifiable digital artifacts. Key works include NFT collections like DEGENERATIVE, which features on-chain generative art gambling machines where owners compete for jackpots granting mint passes, and HASHMARKS, a series of 100 hand-forged iron sculptures paired with cryptographically linked NFTs. Collaborations with institutions like LACMA have resulted in pieces such as CHRONOPHOTOGRAPH, inspired by historical chronophotography and implemented through blockchain interactions between collections. Interactive installations like PAYPHONE allow users to submit blockchain transactions as prompts for custom art generation, delivered via a rotary phone interface. Deafbeef's practice critiques and commemorates crypto culture through satire and experimentation, emphasizing long-term artistic value over speculation. Recent endeavors involve stop-motion animation and quirky blockchain mechanics, pushing the boundaries of verifiable historic digital art.

deafbeef's price increased 20% on January 21, 2026.